The Issala Sanctuary
Location: Mbé Kingdom, Republic of the Congo
Project Sponsor: Khonsou Group
Sectors: Agro-Tourism – Ecological Agriculture – Sustainable Development – Ecotourism
A Pioneering Agro-Touristic Complex in a Historically Significant Region
Nestled within the 16,000-hectare expanse of the Mbé Kingdom, The Issala Sanctuary stands as a testament to Congo’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to sustainable economic growth. Once the core of the great Tio Kingdom, this savannah landscape boasts an intangible cultural and natural heritage, offering a glimpse of an authentic Africa that Khonsou Group seeks to preserve, restore, and showcase.
Vision: Economic Diversification and Ecological Stewardship
As part of the Republic of the Congo’s goal to diversify its economy and promote a prosperous, modern, and eco-friendly agriculture, Khonsou Group adopts a bold approach to:
- Strengthen Congo’s food independence, through large-scale cereal production.
- Train and empower youth for a renewed connection to the land, generating employment opportunities in vibrant rural settings.
- Highlight the region’s cultural wealth by creating an immersive, respectful form of agro-tourism.
Key Components of the Project
- 2,000 Hectares of cereal Production in agroforestry
- A strategic move to bolster food security and support potential export opportunities.
- Implementation of eco-responsible farming methods, preserving soil health and biodiversity.
- High-Value Plantations for Essential Oils
- Focus on aromatic plants destined for the perfumery and cosmetics industries.
- Creation of sensory landscapes that combine aesthetic appeal with economic viability.
- An Exclusive Lodging Experience
- 30 luxury lodges seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings, offering both comfort and ecological harmony.
- An immersive stay where visitors can witness productive farmland and the region’s cultural richness.
- Target audience: local guests (including residents of Kinshasa) and international travelers seeking an authentic and exclusive experience.
Social and Economic Benefits
- Job Creation and Skills Development: Generating opportunities for agricultural workers, hotel staff, local guides, and artisans.
- Rural Revitalization: Stimulating local businesses and services, raising living standards, and strengthening the local economy.
- Food Independence: Contributing to a stable national food supply, reducing reliance on imports.
- Enhanced Regional Visibility: Positioning the Mbé Kingdom as a premium travel destination, bringing in sustainable tourism revenue.
Respecting Tradition, Embracing Innovation
Khonsou Group’s approach is anchored in environmental stewardship and cultural respect:
- Conservation and Restoration: Protecting the land’s biodiversity, reconstituting natural habitats, and nurturing the historical legacy of the Mbé Kingdom.
- Community-Centric Practices: Prioritizing the well-being of local populations by honoring their traditions, knowledge, and heritage.
- Synergy of Economy and Culture: Combining modern farming techniques with cultural authenticity to offer visitors a unique glimpse into Africa’s historical roots.
Join Us in Building the Future
The Issala Sanctuary represents Khonsou Group’s dedication to harmonizing economic performance, ecological balance, and cultural heritage. By merging sustainable agriculture with immersive tourism, we pave the way for:
- Empowered communities with improved livelihoods and new opportunities.
- Food sovereignty through robust, ecologically sound agricultural practices.
- Preservation of a priceless heritage, inviting visitors to discover an authentic slice of Africa’s past and present.